IAN CHANDLER has thrown down the gauntlet to playmaker Paul Robinson to make up for his Wembley heartache in the FA Vase last season.

Robinson is likely to be in the thick of things against Chertsey tomorrow on FA Vase fifth-round day and has been backed by his manager.

The Whitley Bay boss made a brave decision to drop the player dubbed the Hillheads Maradona, but it was a decision that went on to be vindicated as the blue-and-whites beat Glossop North End 2-0.

This time, though, with former Tranmere Rovers player Robinson in fine form, Chandler admits it would be tougher to make such a big move.

And with the Wembley Arch beginning to emerge on the horizon once again for the Bay, Chandler knows there could be another chance for the skilful midfielder who has already emulated David Beckham this season with a goal from inside his own half.

Chandler told the Chronicle: “Paul is a very skilful player with two good feet and he scores goals from distance.

“He’s one of our most influential players and he had a big disappointment last season when he wasn’t picked for Wembley from the start.

“I left him out last time. But this year he has become a better all-round player this season.

“So it is becoming harder to leave him out.”

Chandler is not expecting an easy ride against one of the minnows that still remain in the Vase.

He added: “We had Chertsey watched and if the reports that came back are true then we will be in for a tough game on Saturday.

“Their lad John Pomroy scored four and they were very dangerous through the middle, but defensively we are usually quite strong. But if we play as well as we can do, then Chertsey will have to play very well to beat us.”

Whitley are sending two coaches of fans to Chertsey and Chandler said his side will – as ever – be looking to entertain.

He went on: “We have a defence, but attacking-wise we like to get at teams and if that means winning 5-4 or 4-3 then so be it.

“We know that we can score goals, but it depends upon the opposition and if they score more than us. If people want to see entertaining football then that is what they will get from us.”